Should we let students reject college prep?
Column by Jay Matthews/Washington Post
USA Today has a long and interesting story today on, as its headline says, "What if a college education just isn't for everyone?" It is a good question. I don't think college is for everyone. But I also don't think we should let 15 or 16 year olds take themselves out of English and math courses that will prepare them for college--and for good jobs or trade schools, according to some of the research I have seen. After they have walked across the auditorium stage and received their high school diplomas, they can decide what they want to do next, knowing they are equipped for any number of choices. Dumping the college option in sophomore year makes no sense. (more...)